Everyone knows about the LBD (little black dress). It’s an essential component for any women’s wardrobe. What some of us forget, though, is the LBD’s counterpart – the LWD! The little white dress is the perfect staple for the spring and summer seasons. It’s an easy go-to for those days when you’re not quite feeling inspired. On the other hand, the LWD is versatile and can be accessorized to match your personal creative spark.
Casual Cottons
When the sun is beating down, fewer things are fresher and breezier than a simple white dress in a sporty fabric. A casual t-shirt dress can be paired with sneakers or flip flops. They are great for running errands and such tasks when you want to be comfortable but still clean and crisp. These are especially easy to buy online, as they usually come in simple S,M,L sizes. Sleeveless styles are even better to show off some skin when it’s hot. When it’s time to cover up, a denim jacket is the perfect topper for these casual dresses. Below, L to R: Broderie Dress by Boutique – $125 at topshop.com; Slummy Tee Dress By Alternative Apparel – $20 at karmaloop.com; Xtina Jersey Dress by Marc by Marc Jacobs – $185 at stylebop.com
Sharp Dressing
Even though it’s hot outside there are times when you want to look sharp as a tack! Shirt dresses are the quintessential option in this case, as they bring a sense of business to an otherwise casual look. Tailoring is key with these styles. You want to aim for a cut that defines your shape without being tight. Another way to achieve the vibe is with a wrap or faux wrap dress in a sturdy fabric (not jersey!). Also try origami shapes when you want to test the avante garde waters. Below L to R: Cacharel shirt dress – $700 at shopzoeonline.com; BCBGMAXAZRIA White Shirred Dress – $130 at bloomingdales.com; Maison Martin Margiela crepe mini dress – $750 at netaporter.com.
Pretty Frills
In the spring season the grass is newly green, flowers are blooming, and it’s the perfect time to nurture your girly side. But wearing ruffles and such can be a walking a fine line. You don’t want to look like a little girl! When you want to go frilly white is a great color to make sure you maintain a sense of sophistication. Eyelet and crochet and great choices for this look. Below L to R: Wrap dress by Moschino – $399 at couture.zappos.com; The New River Dress By Quiksilver – $84 at karmaloop.com; Crochet Tiered Sundress – $80 at topshop.com
Slick & Sexy
White can be casual, sharp, and pretty. The cool hue, though, can also be incredibly sexy. If you are very confident and/or very fit you can opt for a super-tight “bodycon” dress. But there are more ways to be sexy than a tight dress. Try taking the hemlines way up with a mini dress, or show off some cleavage or back skin with a low-cut bodice. Take the vavoom factor way up by wearing these styles with high-heeled pumps, sandals, or wedges. Below L to R: MASON BY Michelle Mason ruched dress – $300 at farfetch.com; Milly collared dress – $512 at mytheresa.com; Sporty Bodycon Dress – $65 at topshop.com.
